New StarTech KVM switch has native DisplayPort

With many newer monitors and graphics cards flaunting DisplayPort connections, it's about time keyboard-video-mouse (KVM) switches got in line, too. StarTech now claims to be the "first to market" with a DisplayPort-capable KVM switch, which it sells for $219.99 from its online store.

The "2 Port Professional USB DisplayPort KVM Switch with Hotkey Control," or SV231DPU for short, will let you hook up two DisplayPort-capable computers to a single DisplayPort monitor. StarTech has included three USB ports for a mouse, keyboard, and hub, and it lets users switch systems using either hotkeys or buttons on the device itself.

DisplayPort connectivity allows the KVM switch to support a resolution of up to 2560x1600 at 60Hz, but that's not all. The standard supports both audio and video, and true to form, this KVM switch supports 7.1-channel high-definition digital audio via DisplayPort. Good thing, too, because you won't find any 1/8" audio ports on the device.

The SV231DPU should also work happily with both Mac OS and Windows, and StarTech covers it with a three-year warranty—not that you'd expect any less considering the price tag.